The Branch

We were formed in 1948 in order to continue the comradeship formed during the War Years.

Our original title was "The Dover Sub Branch", but we were re-titled the East Kent Branch in 1969. Between 1948 and 1977 the Branch was financed by the Regiment, but since 1977 the Branch has been financially independent and holds charitable status.

The Branch was the inspiration of Mr AJ Pullen who was a member of the "Old Kent Branch" which met in Maidstone. He was our first Branch Secretary and Treasurer - a post he held for 25 years. Our first Chairman was Lieutenant Colonel Hanning.

The East Kent Branch continues to keep alive the comradeship formed in military service and provide welfare for our old and needy ex-servicemen and widows.

We extend a warm welcome to all former Grenadiers as well as all former Guardsmen and Troopers of the Household Division who have passed through training at Caterham, Pirbright, Windsor, or other Guards Training establishments in the U.K.

Membership of our Branch includes ex-servicemen from all Regiments of the Household Division and whether you are young, or not so young, we are always pleased to welcome new members.

Invicta Grenadiers

Of all the Branches of the Grenadier Guards Association, the East Kent Branch is the ONLY Branch to have its own march dedicated to it.

The march, Invicta Grenadiers, was composed by Warrant Officer Class One Benjamin Mason (currently Bandmaster of the Band of the Adjutant General's Corp) when he was a Lance Sergeant with the Band of the Grenadier Guards.

His links with the East Kent Branch are formed from the many Branch functions he has attended, over many years, along with other musicians in the Regimental Dance Band. WO1 (Bandmaster) Mason is an Honorary Member of the East Kent Branch.

The Grenadier Guards Association is Registered Under the Charities Act, 1960 No.287265